Check the website address carefully. Look for misspellings in familiar website names (like “googl. com” instead of “google. com”) or unusual characters. Legitimate sites use HTTPS, indicated by a padlock icon in the address bar. If it’s missing, proceed with extreme caution.
Inspect the Website’s Design and Content
Scrutinize the website’s design. Does it look unprofessional or inconsistent with the brand it claims to represent? Phishing sites often have poor grammar, mismatched fonts, or low-resolution images. Also, examine the email address used. Does it match the purported sender’s domain? Suspicious emails often use generic or personal email addresses.
Hover your mouse over links before clicking. The actual URL displayed in the bottom left corner of your browser might differ from the text of the link itself. This exposes hidden redirect links common in phishing attempts. Be wary of urgent requests for personal information. Legitimate organizations rarely demand immediate action regarding passwords, financial details, or other sensitive data.
Use your browser’s built-in security features. Many browsers flag suspicious websites. Pay close attention to these warnings; they are designed to protect you. If you’re unsure, don’t click! Contact the organization directly using a known, verified phone number or email address found on their official website to verify the communication.
